Gemotions

The room swam into focus as Amelia blinked, the bright lights of the community center assaulting her eyes. A yawn escaped, stretching her jaw. She fidgeted in her chair, the velvet fabric of the seat feeling scratchy against her skin. It was hot, too. Much warmer than it should be, a heavy blanket clinging to her.

She glanced at the stage, where her mother was beaming, the picture of health and vitality. Amelia felt a pang of guilt. Here she was, about to deliver a speech, and she was struggling to stay upright. The program in her hands felt like a ton of bricks.

"And now, for a few words from Amelia," the emcee announced, his voice booming. Amelia’s stomach clenched. She pushed herself to stand, her legs feeling like jelly. This was going to be a long five minutes.